Description
This Savory Garlic Herb Chicken with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a family dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, then pan-seared to perfection. Served alongside velvety mashed potatoes enriched with butter and milk, complemented by sweet honey-glazed carrots, and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish balances savory and sweet elements for a satisfying, wholesome experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – seasoned well for maximum flavor
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can substitute with any cooking oil)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh garlic preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Herbs (Italian seasoning as substitute)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste (adjust to your preference)
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet Potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold can be swapped for creamier texture)
- 4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred for better seasoning control)
- 1/2 cup Milk (can substitute with cream or plant-based milk)
Honey-Glazed Carrots
- 2 cups Carrots, peeled and sliced (fresh preferred, frozen is handy)
- 2 tablespoons Honey (maple syrup as alternative)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Mince the garlic finely to maximize flavor infusion in the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). During the last few minutes, add minced garlic to the pan and let it sauté with the chicken for enhanced aroma and flavor.
- Prepare the Potatoes: While the chicken cooks, place peeled and cubed Russet potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add butter and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Carrots: In a separate pan, add sliced carrots with a small amount of water and cook covered on medium heat until carrots are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess water if any remains. Stir in honey and cook for another 2 minutes to glaze the carrots evenly.
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the garlic herb chicken breasts atop or alongside a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes. Add honey-glazed carrots to the plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For a creamier mashed potato, use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of Russet.
- Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels better in the mashed potatoes.
- Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Maple syrup makes a good substitute for honey in the carrot glaze for a different sweetness profile.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pounding them lightly if needed helps.
- Rest cooked chicken a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
